Not many people know about the extremely important health benefits of kale.  Kale is a leafy green vegetable that is a descendent of wild cabbage. It is believed to have originated in Asia Minor and brought to the U.S. in the 17^th century by English settlers. It’s a great wintertime vegetable because kale tastes its sweetest in cold temperatures. It is in season from mid-winter to the beginning of spring.

There are three different types of kale. Curly kale has ruffled leaves and is deep green in color. It has a pungent flavor with bitter peppery qualities. Ornamental kale, also known as salad savoy, has green, white or purple leaves. It has a mellow flavor and tender texture. Dinosaur kale has dark blue-green leaves and an embossed texture. It is slightly sweeter and more delicate in taste than curly kale.

When selecting kale, the leaves should be firm and deeply colored. It should have moist, hardy stems and no browning, yellowing or small holes on the leaves. Choose smaller leaves because they are more tender and mild in flavor. Do not wash before storing your kale. This will help prevent spoilage. Store it in a cool environment. You can put it in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. It can last for 5 days like this. However, the longer you store kale, the more bitter it gets.

Kale is packed with antioxidants, vitamins K, A and C, and has anti-inflammatory and cancer-preventative benefits. It also has cardiovascular support in its ability to lower cholesterol. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties it can help prevent against things like chronic inflammation, which can lead to diseases such as cancer.

Here are some great recipes that include Kale that you can use in your HealthMaster.

Blueberry Kale Smoothie
4 kale leaves, stems removed
2 cups frozen blueberries
2 bananas, peeled
1 ½ cups coconut water
2 tbsp. flax seed powder
1. Attach HealthMaster™ Pitcher to Base and rotate clockwise to lock in place.
2. Add all ingredients into the Pitcher. Secure and lock the Lid and Cap in place. Press ON button. Press RUN button. Increase the speed to 8 until blended and serve.
Note: Use the Tamper as needed to assist in the blending process.

Creamless Chicken Soup
2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
2 carrots
2 stalks celery
1 leek, cleaned
1 small onion, peeled
3 sprigs thyme, stems removed
4 oz. soft tofu
1 Yukon Gold potato
2 kale leaves
1 bay leaf
8 cups chicken stock
sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1. In a medium saucepot, add all the ingredients except tofu. Bring to a boil then simmer for 20 minutes.
2. Attach HealthMaster™ Pitcher to Base and rotate clockwise to lock in place.
3. Add all ingredients into the Pitcher. Secure and lock the Lid and Cap in place. Press ON button. PULSE until creamy.
4. Carefully pour the hot soup in a bowl and serve.
Note: Use the Tamper as needed to assist in the blending process.